Smart: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for someone who is quick-witted and makes good decisions. Can describe both knowledge and practical sense.

• She is very smart and always does well on her exams.
• That was a smart move investing in technology stocks.

Describes someone who is well-educated and has a high level of mental acuity, usually in academic or intellectual pursuits.

• He is one of the most intelligent students in the class.
• Her intelligent insights during the discussion were impressive.

Usually refers to quick thinking and being good at solving problems. Can also imply being inventive or resourceful.

• The clever inventor came up with a new gadget that sold millions.
• She is very clever at coming up with solutions on the spot.

Refers to someone who thinks quickly and clearly, often used in informal contexts. Can also imply mental alertness.

• He's very sharp when it comes to negotiating deals.
• Even at an old age, she remains surprisingly sharp.

Describes someone who is very good at noticing details and making accurate judgments, often related to business or politics.

• He made an astute observation about the market trends.
• Her astute management saved the company from bankruptcy.

When describing someone who appears well-dressed and polished, often in a formal or business setting.

• He looked very smart in his new suit
• She always wears smart outfits to the office

When talking about someone or something that looks attractive and in good taste, not necessarily following the latest trends but having a good sense of personal style.

• She has a very stylish wardrobe
• The new restaurant is stylishly decorated

When describing something or someone that is graceful, refined, and tasteful. Commonly used for formal occasions or high-end fashion.

• She wore an elegant evening gown to the gala
• The wedding was very elegant and tastefully decorated

When referring to someone or something that is stylish in a sophisticated and modern way. Often used in fashion contexts.

• Her new handbag is so chic
• The restaurant has a chic interior design

When referring to someone or something that follows the latest trends and styles. Often indicates trendiness.

• He always buys the most fashionable clothes
• That hairstyle is very fashionable right now

Beyond physical pain, it can also mean being clever or intelligent, but in the context of pain, it is similar to 'sting'.

• She avoided the rough fabric because it made her skin smart.
• His eyes smarted when the shampoo got in them.

A general term for experiencing pain or distress, either physically or emotionally.

• My ankle hurts after I twisted it.
• Watching the sad movie really hurt me emotionally.

Often refers to a sharp, brief pain akin to a prick or burn, typically associated with insect bites or certain plants.

• The bee sting hurt a lot.
• His eyes stung when he got sweat in them.

Used to describe a continuous or prolonged dull pain.

• After the long hike, my legs ached.
• He felt a dull ache in his shoulder.

Describes a painful sensation of heat, often due to actual burns, inflammation, or irritation.

• She touched the hot stove and her hand started to burn.
• The spicy food made his mouth burn.